Identity in the Scottish Diaspora

[Reiver]

Gentlemen.... We have crossed this same bridge many times in the past and I doubt more discussion however respectfully done will change the other party's opinion. Like the Padre, I expect this type of thread discourages new members to join the forum and causes some to leave or be far less active.
Slainte to all!

Not quite a bridge really, more like a wrestling bear pit that always ends in a draw.

I don't think those living in Scotland (generally) intend to be insulting, they have their strong personal opinions.

They appear, to me, to be upset that their/the Highland culture has been sold/exploited to the world and the diaspora in particular. I can see that to a point.
They do not see the diaspora's attention as a positive but more a negative. A bit of thievery. Flying false colors as it were.

I do not think that anyone would intelligently argue that those that 'sold' the Scottishness abroad were other Scots...whether well intentioned or simply for economic reasons or both.
The Govt., economic enterprise and official Clan elements were/are still doing so aggressively today.

The diaspora, those with obvious Scots names and documented heritage, feel a kinship with Scotland thru familial ties, traditions kept alive and thru their own personal history.

What are the official rules for kinship anyway...kin being family of sorts of the long lost kind?
Where are the rules written so we can hire a barrister(s) of due note to argue both sides of the case?

In lieu of finding that lawyer/mouthpiece/barrister I've decided to side with those Scots that find the diaspora appealing (for whatever reason) and my Clan Chieftain (who has talked of this issue) and Lord Lyon (who has also)....in other words, I choose that side and recognize the other does exist and the twain may never meet. It is obvious there is no real consensus one way or the other.

Why should I allow anyone to define my very well researched and articulated ancestry to me?
Why should those in Scotland allow anyone to write their definitions of this/that?

In lieu of finding that rule book it is simply a personal opinion....and we know about personal opinions and body parts do we not.


There is a for and against. I accept that....and, I suspect, there always will be. So be it and God bless all here...even you Jock you curmudgeon ...said with love and respect.


Pat Scott